Principal Network Engineer

Job Description:

Principal Network Engineer

Description

Marketing Statement

Ride BART to a satisfying career that lets you both: 1) make a difference to Bay Area residents, and 2) enjoy excellent pay, benefits, and employment stability. BART is looking for people who like to be challenged, work in a fast-paced environment, and have a passion for connecting riders to work, school and other places they need to go. BART offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, paid time off, and the CalPERS retirement program.

Job Summary

Pay Rate
Non Rep Pay Band E08
Annual Salary Rate: $147,332.00 annually (minimum) - $223,208.00 annually (maximum)
Note: The negotiable salary offer will be between $147,332.00 annually - $190,238.83 annually, commensurate with education and experience.

Reports To
Manager of Information Systems, Director of Technology, or designee

Current Assignment
Are you a highly skilled network engineering professional who thrives on designing and supporting complex, mission-critical infrastructure? The Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO) at BART is seeking an experienced Principal Network Engineer to play a key role in advancing and maintaining the District’s enterprise network environment that supports essential transit operations across the Bay Area. This is an exciting opportunity to apply advanced technical expertise within a large-scale Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) environment, including integration with SCADA systems that support critical transportation technologies.

This job announcement will be used to establish a pool of eligible candidates for vacancies that may occur within the next twelve (12) months.

Principal Network Engineers in the Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO) at San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) are responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining advanced network solutions within a large-scale Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) environment, including integration with SCADA systems.

Key responsibilities of this position would include, but not limited to:

• Design and implement robust and scalable network architectures using MPLS technology.
• Manage and optimize network performance and reliability, ensuring high availability for critical applications.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate SCADA systems into the network infrastructure.
• Analyze and resolve complex network issues, providing advanced troubleshooting and support.
• Develop and enforce network security policies and best practices to safeguard sensitive data.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior engineers, fostering a culture of continuous learning.

The most qualified candidate for this position will have highly developed competencies beyond the minimum qualifications in the following areas, which will be reinforced with related work experience and will be clearly articulated during the selection process:

• Network Certifications: Relevant certifications such as CCNP or CCIE in Routing and Switching or Service Provider.
• MPLS Expertise: Extensive experience in designing and managing large-scale MPLS networks.
• SCADA Knowledge: Familiarity with integrating SCADA systems into enterprise networks.
• Network Security Acumen: Strong understanding of network security principles and practices.
• Problem Solving Skills: Proven ability to analyze complex network issues and implement effective solutions.

Application & Selection Process
All applicants must apply online at www.bart.gov/jobs . Applications must be completed in full and include all requested information, including dates of employment, positions held, hours worked, and a detailed description of duties performed.
Applicants may attach a resume to provide supplemental information; however, the resume does not substitute for completing the application form in its entirety. Only information included in the application at the time of submission will be used to determine whether applicants meet the minimum qualifications for the position. All application materials must be submitted by the closing date and time listed on the job announcement. Applications received after the closing deadline will not be considered.

Applicants who require assistance with the online application process may contact the Talent Acquisition Division at (510) 464-6112 or [email protected] .

The selection process for this position may include one or more of the following: a skills or performance demonstration, written examination, and/or panel or individual interview.

All applications will be reviewed by the Talent Acquisition Division to determine whether applicants meet the established Minimum Qualifications (MQs). Applicants who meet the MQs may be referred to the hiring department for further evaluation as part of the selection process.

The selected candidate must demonstrate a work history reflecting reliability and dependability and may be required to provide copies of certificates, diplomas, or other documentation required by law, including proof of authorization to work in the United States,

Pre-employment processing will include a background check. This requirement does not apply to current full-time District employees unless the position requires additional evaluations or clearances.

Examples of Duties

Performs the most complex network engineering work in the District; plans, reviews and approves network project schedules; assists in strategic planning; prepares status reports; coordinates project resources; communicates with all project participants on relevant issues, identifies and resolves network engineering issues.

Establishes schedules and methods for providing network engineering project services; identifies resource needs; reviews needs with appropriate management staff; allocates resources accordingly.

Participates in the development of policies and procedures; monitors work activities to ensure compliance with established policies and procedures; makes recommendations for changes and improvements to existing standards and procedures.

Recommends and assists in the implementation of goals and objectives; implements approved policies and procedures.

Participates in the review of consultant proposals and designs; recommends awards; conducts or participates in the pre-bid conferences prior to system contract awards.

Determines user requirements for assigned network systems; determines hardware and software designs necessary to accomplish projects; evaluates resources; makes recommendations on systems hardware and software; coordinates procurement.

Prepares analytical and statistical reports on network engineering operations, activities and projects.

Represents the District in public meetings and hearings on proposed projects.

Provides technical network engineering assistance to management, contractors, and other divisions and departments.

Attends and participates in professional group meetings; stays abreast of new trends and innovations in the field of network engineering.

May supervise, assign, review and participate in the work of staff responsible for network engineering projects including network configuration control, change management, life cycle management, simulator testing, quality control, integration, and documentation; as assigned, may oversee the work of outside contractors and consultants.

May participate in the selection of District or contracted engineering staff; provides or coordinates staff training; may work with employees to correct deficiencies; may implement discipline procedures.

Provides direction to engineering staff to ensure operational support for the DOTi and/or CBTC networks and equipment.

Manages CBTC network performance, reliability, and security by working closely with staff from the Maintenance Department and other engineers responsible for managing the different networks used by the District.

Supervises staff responsible for performing modification, updates, and configuration of the CBTC network monitoring system.

Prepares, reviews, and generates technical reports for upper management on the CBTC network.

Attends and participates in professional group meetings; stays abreast of trends, threats, legislation, and innovations in the field of network engineering.

May be required to operate personal and/or District vehicles for transportation to work sites to ensure proper functionality of DOTi and/or CBTC infrastructure, hardware, and equipment.



Minimum Qualifications

Education :
A bachelor’s degree in computer systems, electrical or electronics engineering, or a closely related field from an accredited college or university.

Experience :
Four (4) years of (full-time equivalent) verifiable professional computer systems engineering project experience.

Substitution :
Additional professional experience as outlined above may be substituted for the education on a year-for-year basis. A college degree is preferred.

Other Requirements :
Must be able to obtain a valid California driver’s license whenever feasible to do so and have a satisfactory driving record, at the District’s discretion. May be required to work overtime to test hardware and software and to provide after-hours support on some evenings and weekends.

Substitution :
Additional professional experience as outlined above may be substituted for the education on a year-for-year basis.

Knowledge and Skills

Knowledge of :

• Enterprise Network Architecture & Operations
• Advanced networking concepts, including TCP/IP, routing protocols (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP), and switching technologies.
• Network architecture design and implementation principles, including enterprise-level networking.
• Security protocols and best practices for network security (e.g., firewalls, VPNs, intrusion detection systems).
• Cloud networking and integration with cloud service providers.
• Network performance monitoring tools and techniques.
• Emerging technologies in networking, such as SDN (Software-Defined Networking) and NFV (Network Functions Virtualization).
• Regulatory compliance standards related to networking (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA).
• Operations, services and activities of a comprehensive network engineering program.
• Operational characteristics of network engineering systems including connectivity to multiple systems and locations.
• Network operations and methodologies.
• Network and control system hardware and software capabilities.
• Contract preparation and administration.
• Methods and techniques of estimating and scheduling network modifications.
• Concepts of real-time systems analysis and programming.
• Terminology, methods, practices, and techniques used in technical report preparation.
• Modern office procedures, methods, and equipment including computers.
• Specialized computer programs or systems utilized in project management and design.
• Related procurement practices, procedures and requirements.
• Related Federal, State and local laws, codes and regulations.
• Principles of supervision, training and performance evaluation.
  
  

Skill in :

• Designing, configuring, and troubleshooting complex network infrastructures.
• Leading cross-functional teams and projects to achieve strategic networking goals.
• Implementing network security measures and conducting risk assessments.
• Analyzing network performance metrics and optimizing network resources.
• Developing and maintaining network documentation and diagrams.
• Communicating technical concepts effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Managing vendor relationships and negotiating contracts for networking equipment and services.
• Performing the most complex computer system analysis, design and project management duties.
• Preparing network design criteria, specifications and standards.
• Performing and reviewing complex calculations.
• Analyzing complex technical problems, evaluating alternatives and recommending solutions.
• Interpreting and explaining District policies and procedures.
• Preparing clear, concise and complete reports.
• Communicating clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Understanding and following oral and written instructions.
• Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
• Supervising, organizing and reviewing the work of lower-level staff.
• Selecting, supervising, training and evaluating staff.
  
  

Equal Employment Opportunity GroupBox1

The San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants shall not be discriminated against because of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age (40 and above), religion, national origin (including language use restrictions), disability (mental and physical, including HIV and AIDS), ancestry, marital status, military status, veteran status, medical condition (cancer/genetic characteristics and information), or any protected category prohibited by local, state or federal laws.

The BART Human Resources Department will make reasonable efforts in the examination process to accommodate persons with disabilities or for religious reasons. Please advise the Human Resources Department of any special needs in advance of the examination by emailing at least 5 days before your examination date at [email protected] .

Qualified veterans may be eligible to obtain additional veteran's credit in the selection process for this recruitment (effective Jan. 1, 2013). To obtain the credit, veterans must attach to the application a DD214 discharge document or proof of disability and complete/submit the Veteran's Preference Application no later than the closing date of the posting. For more information about this credit please go to the Veteran's Preference Policy and Application link at www.bart.gov/jobs .

The San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART) prides itself in offering best in class benefits packages to employees of the District. Currently, the following benefits may be available to employees in this job classification.

Highlights

• Medical Coverage (or $350/month if opted out)
• Dental Coverage
• Vision Insurance (Basic and Enhanced Plans Available)
• Retirement Plan through the CA Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS)
  • 2% @ 55 (Classic Members)
  • 2% @ 62 (PEPRA Members)
  • 3% at 50 (Safety Members - Classic)
  • 2.7% @ 57 (Safety Members - PEPRA)
  • Reciprocity available for existing members of many other public retirement systems (see BART website and/or CalPERS website for details)
• Money Purchase Pension Plan (in-lieu of participating in Social Security tax)
  • 6.65% employer contribution up to annual maximum of $1,868.65
• Deferred Compensation & Roth 457
• Sick Leave Accruals (12 days per year)
• Vacation Accruals (3-6 weeks based on time worked w/ the District)
• Holidays: 9 observed holidays and 5 floating holidays
• Life Insurance w/ ability to obtain additional coverage
• Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
• Survivor Benefits through BART
• Short-Term Disability Insurance
• Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts: Health and Dependent Care
• Commuter Benefits
• Free BART Passes for BART employees and eligible family members.

Closing Date/Time: 4/20/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Salary:

$147,332.00 - $223,208.00 Annually